Minox BD Series BR Binoculars - 8.5x42, Waterproof, Aspherical Lens Technology

These binocs are plenty good for all but the most brand conscious. I have excellent vision, 20/15 or better (not bad for 46), and can clearly see the difference in sharpness and contrast between bincos, even the big guns. These Minox are just as sharp and only slightly less contrasty as the L's, just a small notch in both contrast and sharpness compared to similar S's and I actually think they are better then the Zs. I like the feel of the Minox, and my only complaint is that the eyeguards that extend are not metal with rubber coating. Instead they are plastic with worries me in such a high movement area. Also, I'm not sure if its deliberate but once calibrated for your eyes, the calibration adjustment ring is very hard to turn. Pop it free, and it rotates nicely. Ignore it for a while and it stays put. I wish it was a locked mechanism like the brand Ls but for sub $500 (much less for me when I put my discounts and coupons together), it is so nice to have a world-class pair of binocs that I don't have to worry about someone breaking into my car to steal them, or worry when they are passed around to a bunch of outdoor noobies or kids.

My pair arrived today, and they're quite good. I couldn't call them lightweight or compact, they're medium in both weight and size. The image quality is excellent, very clear and bright. The image is in crisp focus all the way to the edge. They're definitely better than my pair of mid-range binoculars made by a famous German company whose name begins with Z. I'd say they're not quite as good as the binoculars from a famous Austrian company whose name begins with S. But, they were about 1/4 price, so I think these are a very good value. I plan to use them for wildlife viewing, and their low light performance is excellent.

Used for hunting, scouting. Quality product, clear, light and accurate.

Can compete with any of the top brands Swaroski, Nikon, Bushnell Elite, etc